This week, “On the Record” provides an insightful retrospective on the most significant political stories of 2025, along with a glimpse into what lies ahead in 2026. Analysts Mary Anne Marsh and Ginny Buckingham examine the key accomplishments of President Donald Trump, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu throughout the past year.
Key Accomplishments of 2025
Throughout 2025, President Trump focused on a range of initiatives aimed at bolstering the economy and enhancing national security. Notably, the administration reported a 3.5% increase in GDP, a figure that garnered significant attention from both supporters and critics. Trump’s administration emphasized tax reforms and deregulation as key drivers behind this growth, claiming it has created more than 1.2 million jobs across various sectors.
In addition to economic policies, Trump’s foreign relations efforts were marked by renewed discussions with various global leaders. These negotiations aimed to address trade imbalances and strengthen alliances, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Analysts noted that these interactions could shape the United States’ international standing in the coming years.
Meanwhile, Governor Maura Healey made significant strides in advancing climate policies in Massachusetts. Under her leadership, the state enacted ambitious legislation targeting net-zero emissions by 2050. Healey’s administration also focused on bolstering renewable energy initiatives, resulting in a reported increase of 15% in solar energy installations statewide.
Local Leadership and Community Engagement
In Boston, Mayor Michelle Wu prioritized community engagement and affordable housing throughout 2025. Wu’s administration launched several initiatives aimed at increasing access to housing for low-income families, including the creation of over 2,000 new units of affordable housing. This effort was part of a broader strategy to address homelessness and housing insecurity in the city.
Wu’s leadership also emphasized enhancing public transportation services, with plans to expand the city’s subway system. This expansion is expected to improve accessibility for residents and reduce traffic congestion, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.
As 2026 approaches, both analysts and political figures are keen to assess the implications of these accomplishments. Marsh and Buckingham highlight that the upcoming year will present new challenges, including potential shifts in voter sentiment as the nation heads into election season.
Both analysts suggest that the political landscape could be influenced by the economic performance in the first half of 2026, alongside public reactions to ongoing governmental initiatives. The interplay between federal policies and local governance will likely shape the priorities of candidates as they prepare for elections.
This retrospective on 2025 underscores the importance of evaluating accomplishments not only for their immediate impact but also for their potential long-term implications as the political climate evolves. With key figures like Trump, Healey, and Wu at the forefront, the coming year promises to be pivotal for American politics.
